It’s been said that crime doesn’t pay. But if that were true, more white-collar criminals would be in jail. For most of us, breaking the law has dire consequences. For proof, see “Evolution of the Criminal,” the 2014 documentary by filmmaker Darius Clark Monroe, playing Friday, Aug. 21, at Historic Tredegar. The movie chronicles Monroe’s involvement in a bank robbery as a 16-year-old growing up poor outside of Houston, and the motivations that drove him and his friends to commit the crime. The film features interviews with family members, close friends and mentors who recount the stages of Monroe’s transformation from high-school honors student to convicted bank robber. It’s an unflinching examination of the causes and societal effects of criminal behavior. Presented as part of the Starry Night film series held by the Afrikana Independent Film Festival, doors open for the outdoor screening at 8 p.m. In case of inclement weather, the movie will be shown under a big tent in the Tredegar courtyard. Suggested admission is $10. afrikanafilmfestival.org.